Diagnóstico e tratamento precoce da Classe III: relato de caso clínico Class III diagnosis and early treatment: case report

In malocclusion studies, may happen not only dental discrepancies but even skeletal discrepancies. In Class III malocclusion can be observed underdeveloped maxilla, mandible protraction or both of them, and, in most of the times associated with a narrow maxilla that causes anterior or posterior crossbites, in one side or in two sides. The aim of this case report is to evaluate the facial profile and occlusal effects of interceptive orthodontics therapy. The treatment with upper arch expansion and maxilla protraction was done in an early age to be effective in the circummaxillary sutural system and to make the orthopedic effect easier. The facial mask used is positioned on two facial points and allows an anterior maxillary replacement. Patients’ compliance is important to reach treatment success, this because using the mask still in this growth and development phase is essential to make the facial and occlusal effects happen. It is important to mention that patients with Angle Class III malocclusion need to be followed till the end of their growth. Descriptors: Malocclusion, Angle Class III/diagnosis; Orthodontics, interceptive